Our settlement was formed of six or eight different households, all connected, and all from the neighbourhood of the beautiful Bowery.  Each knew what the other had left, and tried to cheer each other with brighter hopes than they hardly dared to feel; but sympathy and kindness were among us.

Why need I tell you of our blighted crops and scanty harvests, and all the toil and trouble which we then endured.  I must go on with what I commenced—­the story of my own love.  Shall I say that when Ella accompanied us I hoped De Clairville might never join us.  ’Tis true, but what were my feelings to discover the love of Conrad for the gem of my heart, and that he cherished it with all the deep strength of his nature.  I saw Ella’s manner was not such as became a betrothed maiden, but she feared Conrad, and trembled beneath the dark glance of his eye.  A feeling more of fear and pity than of love was her’s; but I was fearful for the result, for I knew he was one not to be trifled with.

The last dreary days of the autumn were gathered round us—­the earth was already bound in her frozen sleep, and all nature stilled in her silent trance—­all, save the restless waves, dashing on the rocky shore; or the wind, which first curled their crests, and then went sweeping through the wiry foliage of the pines—­when, at the close of the short twilight, we were all gathered on the highest point which overlooked the sea, earnestly gazing o’er the dim horizon, where night was coming fast.  Ere the sun had set a barque had been seen, and her appearance caused unwonted excitement in our solitudes.  Ships in those days were strange but welcome visitants.  Not merely the necessaries of life, but kind letters and tidings from distant friends were borne by them.  As the darkness increased, signal fires were raised along the beach, and ere long a gun came booming o’er the waters; soon after came the noble ship herself; her white sails gleaming through the night, and the glittering spray flashing in diamond sparkles from her prow.  She came to, some distance from the shore, and, as if by magic, every sail was furled.  A boat came glancing from her side; a few minutes sent it to the beach, and a gallant form sprung out upon the strand.  It was De Clairville come to claim his affianced bride; and with a blushing cheek and tearful eye Ella was once more folded to his faithful heart.

A pang of jealous feeling for an instant darted through me, but Conrad’s face met mine, and its dark expression drove the demon power from me.  I saw the withering scowl of hate he cast upon De Clairville, and I inwardly determined to shield the noble youth from the malice of that dark one; for, bright as was to me the hope of Ella’s love, I loved her too well to be ought but rejoiced in her happiness.  Although it brought sorrow to myself, yet she was blessed.  Mirth and joy, now for a while cheered our lonely homes; we knew we were to lose our flower; but love like theirs is a gladsome thing to look at.